TO CONGRATULATE LUTHER HARLEY OF HAMPTON COUNTY ON THE OCCASION OF HIS NINETIETH BIRTHDAY, AND TO WISH HIM A JOYOUS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND MANY YEARS OF CONTINUED HEALTH AND HAPPINESS.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are delighted to learn that Luther Harley of Hampton County celebrated his ninetieth birthday on January 15, 2012; and

Whereas, born on January 15, 1922, in the early part of the twentieth century, he has been witness to nearly all the incredible social changes, technological advancements, and international developments that have occurred from that time into the second decade of the twenty-first century; and

Whereas, Luther Harley completed his primary schooling at the old Early Branch School and joined Bethlehem Baptist Church at an early age; and

Whereas, a decorated combat veteran of World War II, he served his country with distinction while stationed in both France and Germany; and

Whereas, he married his beloved wife, Merdyth Young Harley, on September 8, 1958, and as a self-employed entrepreneur of the Low Country, he owned and operated a grocery store in Early Branch; and

Whereas, for many years, he served as a trustee of Bethlehem Baptist Church and as the Sunday school chair, and he currently serves as trustee emeritus; and

Whereas, with his steady hand, impartial judgment, and Christian spirit, Luther Harley continues to be a blessing to his Church and the larger community and to sustain himself as an outstanding citizen and an active role model and businessman in the community; and

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are pleased to honor this son of South Carolina upon arriving at his ninetieth birthday and join with his family and friends in congratulating him on reaching this extraordinary milestone. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate Luther Harley of Hampton County on the occasion of his ninetieth birthday, and wish him a joyous birthday celebration and many years of continued health and happiness.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Luther Harley.